Prime Minister Tarique Rahman today inaugurated a tree plantation campaign by planting coconut and neem saplings along the bank of the newly re-excavated Sarikal–Batajor Canal in Batajor Union of Gournadi upazila in Barishal district. The Prime Minister arrived at the canal bank at around 10:00 am, where housewives and farmers gathered to greet him. Following a munajat (prayer), he planted the saplings with the slogan 'Bangladesh First' and saying 'Bismillah.'
Commitment to Environmental Stewardship
Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister Rahman emphasized the importance of environmental stewardship. He stated, 'Our work will not end simply by planting the trees. Today, 2,500 saplings will be planted. Everyone must take care of them.' He likened the care of young saplings to that of a newborn child, urging the community to nurture the plants daily. Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon accompanied the Prime Minister and also planted a sapling.
Canal and Community Significance
The Sarikal–Batajor Canal, locally known as the Batajor Canal, flows beside Batajor Bazar and connects with the Miar Char River through the Sarikal River on the eastern side of the market. The re-excavation of the canal is part of ongoing efforts to improve local water management and support agricultural activities in the region. The tree plantation campaign is expected to enhance the ecological balance and provide shade and aesthetic value to the area.
Next Steps and Community Engagement
After inaugurating the tree plantation programme, the Prime Minister proceeded to the Family Card distribution programme in Batajor, where he handed over Family Cards to the female heads of beneficiary families. Upon completing the Gournadi programme, the Prime Minister traveled to Barishal city by road. He inaugurated another tree plantation programme along the bank of the Sagardi Canal adjacent to the Trish Godown Mass Killing Memorial in the Barishal City Corporation area in the afternoon. Later, he joined an organizational meeting of BNP at the Barishal District Shilpakala Academy.
Why This Matters
The tree plantation campaign is a significant initiative aimed at promoting environmental conservation and community engagement. By planting 2,500 saplings, the government seeks to combat deforestation, improve air quality, and foster a culture of environmental responsibility among citizens. The involvement of local residents in nurturing the saplings underscores the importance of collective action in achieving sustainable development goals.
